Market Position:
The 1998 Chrysler Voyager was a popular minivan, part of the second generation (NS) which continued its dominance in the family vehicle segment, offering practicality and versatility.
Competitors:
Competed directly with the Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, and the Japanese offerings like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.
Key Features:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, optional all-wheel drive (AWD - though less common on base models), robust engine options.
Purpose:
Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts to perform all maintenance, diagnostic, and repair operations.
Engine Mechanical:
3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72), 3.3L V6 (Chrysler EFA), 3.8L V6 (Chrysler EGH) - including disassembly, assembly, specifications, and diagnostics.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (MPI), starting and charging system, sensors, actuators, PCM diagnostics.
Transmission:
3-speed Automatic (A604), 4-speed Automatic (42LE) - overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), CV joints, differential, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut, rear torsion beam/leaf spring (depending on configuration), alignment specifications, component replacement.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum (standard), ABS system diagnostics and repair, hydraulic components, brake bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power rack and pinion, steering column, components, fluid service, alignment.
Electrical Body:
Lighting, wipers, power windows, power locks, mirrors, door modules, interior controls, HVAC blower motor.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant service, heater core, climate control system.
Chassis Body:
Body structure, panels, doors, glass, interior trim, corrosion prevention.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and components, seat belt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause analysis for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension work, brake system repairs.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) code retrieval, interpretation, and component testing using appropriate diagnostic tools.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, alignment angles, engine timing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Options:
3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72), 3.3L V6 (Chrysler EFA), 3.8L V6 (Chrysler EGH).
3.3L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 158 hp @ 4600 rpm
3.3L V6 Torque:
Approximately 203 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
3.8L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 166 hp @ 4400 rpm
3.8L V6 Torque:
Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or coil pack configuration.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42LE - for 3.3L and 3.8L engines)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (A604 - primarily for 3.0L engine)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, front-wheel drive, Park/Neutral safety switch.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 (Chrysler part number 05010070AA or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for 42LE, 7.8 quarts (7.4 liters) for A604 (dry fill).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Acceptable (for the era).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Acceptable (for the era).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional or standard depending on trim.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced body structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, using conventional oil; consult manual for synthetic oil recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for severe service, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months for normal service.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum plugs (if equipped).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation, consult manual for specifics).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or Dexron II/III equivalent.
Common Issues:
Transmission solenoid failures (especially on the A604), rear axle bearing wear, power steering pump leaks, EGR valve issues, AC system leaks, dashboard speaker crackle.
Engine Mounting:
Premature engine mount wear due to vehicle weight and engine torque.
Door Mechanisms:
Sliding door latch and roller mechanism issues.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history of innovation in the automotive industry, particularly in pioneering the minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager (which became Chrysler Voyager in some markets).
Model Evolution 1998:
The 1998 model is part of the second generation (NS), which debuted in 1996. It featured a more aerodynamic design, improved safety features, and updated powertrains compared to the first generation.
Production Years:
Second generation (NS) produced from 1996 to 2000.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.